Terror Strikes Pahalgam: 26 Lives Lost
In one of the deadliest terror incidents in recent years, the Pahalgam terror attack shook Jammu and Kashmir, claiming 26 innocent lives. Authorities believe that two highly trained Pakistani terrorists, along with a local Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) recruit, orchestrated this brutal act. The attack has prompted a multi-agency response involving the Army, Rashtriya Rifles, paramilitary forces, and Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Infiltration Route and Background
According to intelligence sources, the two Pakistani nationals — identified as Ali Bhai alias Talha and Hashim Musa alias Suleiman — infiltrated into Indian territory around 18 months ago. Authorities suspect that they crossed through the Samba-Kathua border area, breaching the security fence. Since arriving, they have carried out several attacks in the Valley, including in Poonch, Rajouri, Baramulla, and Kulgam.
The group’s infiltration had come under scrutiny following earlier incidents, and a senior BSF officer had reportedly faced questions from the Ministry of Home Affairs about security lapses at the border.
Local LeT Recruit Part of the Plot
The third identified attacker in the Pahalgam terror attack is Adil Hussain Thoker, a resident of Bijbehara in Anantnag. Before turning to terrorism, Thoker was a school teacher in Kashmir. He had traveled to Pakistan in 2018 on a student visa via the Wagah border, only to end up at a LeT terror training camp. After returning to Kashmir with the Pakistani duo, he maintained a low profile while planning and executing attacks.
Security Forces Launch Extensive Search Operation
After the Pahalgam terror attack, security agencies immediately mobilized for an intensive search operation in the higher altitudes of Anantnag district. Using satellite surveillance, drone footage, mobile tracking, and local tribal intelligence, the forces are closing in on the suspected hideouts of the terrorists.
A senior police officer stated, “We’re using every piece of technical and human intelligence at our disposal. We’re confident we will neutralize them soon.”
Crucial Identification from Eyewitnesses and CCTV
Investigators pieced together the identification of the three suspects using eyewitness accounts, tourist videos, and previously collected intelligence. Eyewitnesses were shown images of known militants, leading to the identification of Hashim Musa. His image had previously been recovered from the phone of slain LeT terrorist Junaid Ahmed Bhat, who was killed in the Dachigam forests in December.
This phone contained multiple photos, including those of Musa and Ali Bhai. CCTV footage from the Z-morh tunnel attack in Sonmarg last October shows Musa, who was involved in the attack that killed seven construction workers.
Links to Previous Attacks Under Investigation
Investigators suspect that the same group involved in the Pahalgam terror attack may have also carried out the October 24, 2024, Boot Pathari ambush, which left three Army soldiers and two porters dead. Though the People’s Anti-Fascist Front, an offshoot of Jaish-e-Mohammed, claimed responsibility, officials believe LeT members were behind the operation.
These terrorists are also linked to a May 2024 attack in Poonch that killed an Air Force personnel and injured four others, as well as a Kulgam encounter in August 2023, where three Army men lost their lives.
Highly Trained and Dangerous Operatives
Security sources describe Musa as a highly trained operative adept at jungle warfare and survival. “He’s believed to be part of a group that has killed over 50 Army personnel in the last three years using guerrilla tactics and precision strikes,” said an intelligence officer.
Public Support Encouraged with Reward Announced
To aid their efforts, police have released sketches of the attackers and announced a reward of ₹20 lakh for information leading to their capture. Authorities are urging locals, especially in tribal areas, to report suspicious movements or hidden caches. The government is also considering extending support and protection for whistleblowers.
A Community United Against Terror
The Pahalgam terror attack has not only sparked outrage but also galvanized the local community and security agencies into action. As the hunt for these terrorists continues, the unity of purpose among residents, the Army, and the police reflects a collective commitment to rooting out terrorism from the Valley. Source indianexpress
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